So, YouTube is this crazy place where we upload our favourite gaming moments and simply hope that we rack up a ton of views right? Well, you COULD put it that way… but not really. YouTube is actually the place where many people get their fix of social media, discussing all the little bits and pieces of their favourite games or videos in one massive destination. Keywords, thumbnails, tent-pole and upload schedules aside, the key to running a prosperous channel is engaging with your viewers with a little chit-chat every now and then. Reward them for commenting on your video with a little holla-back, it makes even the passer-by feel valued – and that’s never a bad thing.

“If they feel like you care about their comments, they’ll keep commenting in the future and hopefully bring their friends.”

Positive Reinforcement… of Positivity

Despite how many people give your videos a thumbs up, positive comments can be tough to come by depending on your audience. Look for these positive comments and try responding to them in a way that makes them feel good about having taken the time to do so. This is part of your personal brand. It’s how people perceive you as a YouTuber. If they feel like you care about their comments, they’ll keep commenting in the future and hopefully bring their friends. Word of mouth, my friends! Remember, for those of you with VISO Catalyst, you can track comments on your channel

Solving Problems

Someone have a question or a problem on your channel? Answer them! It’s that simple. If you put on your problem-solving-hat and your listening-face, your viewers will appreciate it even if you can’t resolve whatever issue or question they have.

Ignore the Trolls

YouTube’s integration with Google+ was the big move that the search giants made to better deal with trolls – we all know how well that worked… That doesn’t mean you should feed the trolls with responses. Trust me, they aren’t worth your time. If you find yourself in an accidental conversation with a bridge-dwelling gremlin, remember not to stoop to their level or get visibly frustrated. That’s how they win. Worst comes to worst, block the sucker.